As we get closer to summer vacation for Illinois children and teens throughout the Chicago area and across the country, it seems like a good idea to look at the dangers that can still exist for those driving, walking and otherwise traveling in designated school zones.
School zone speed limits don’t just apply during the school year, between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Drivers can also be ticketed if they violate the reduced speed limit when summer school is in session at a particular location. Of course, for drivers passing through an area, it can be impossible to know whether a specific school has summer classes or not (as well as what days and hours).
Kids can be in a school zone even when school is out
That’s why it’s smart to adhere to the posted reduced speed limit just to be safe – and certainly when children are present. Remember that many schools are within or near residential areas. Therefore, it’s likely that kids will be walking, skateboarding, riding bikes or otherwise out and about on or near the road. It’s wise to be on the lookout. Even drivers who have the right-of-way can be startled by a child running out into the street after a ball or from behind a car.
That scenario can be dangerous not just for the child and the startled driver but for any driver behind them who then has to respond quickly. By driving at a reasonably slow speed, there’s more time to react to other drivers doing the unexpected.
More about Illinois law
In addition to slower speeds in school zones, which Illinois law defines as “both sides of that part of the public highway in front of the principal entrance to any public elementary or high school or parochial school, and extending not less than 300 feet in either direction from such school building,” the law also states, “No person operating an overtaking vehicle shall pass an overtaken vehicle in a school zone unless such overtaken vehicle is stopped.”
Drivers who are caught speeding in a school zone can face a wide range of fines starting at $150 and going up to $25,000 (as well as jail time) if they strike a pedestrian. They can also cause crashes that injure other motorists.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries caused by a speeding or otherwise negligent driver, it’s crucial to get the compensation you need to cover medical bills and other expenses and damages. Having legal guidance can make all the difference.